AgriSafe’s New Provider Directory Helps Rural Families Navigate Mental Health Issues During the Holidays

Olivia Bury, AgriSafe Network Behavioral Health Coordinator, shares about AgriSafe Network’s resources created to support farmers and rural Americans.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — The holiday season can be a joyful time, but for many in rural America, it can also bring heightened stress and mental health challenges. To help farmers, ranchers, and their families access support, AgriSafe Network has launched a new resource designed specifically for rural communities.

Olivia Bury, AgriSafe Network’s Behavioral Health Coordinator, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss the new AgriStress Provider Directory and the mental health resources available to producers.

In her interview with RFD-TV News, Bury explained that farmers and ranchers often face unique stressors — from unpredictable markets and weather events to long hours and isolation — which can significantly impact mental health. The new provider directory aims to make it easier for rural residents to find professionals who understand these challenges and offer tailored support.

The directory lists trained mental health providers who have completed specialized programs to understand agricultural values, stressors, and lifestyle considerations. According to Bury, this training equips providers to connect with rural clients in a meaningful and culturally sensitive way.

For those in need of help, the directory is available online, making it easy for producers and family members to locate qualified mental health professionals in their area. AgriSafe also offers additional resources and guidance for agricultural communities seeking support throughout the year.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: https://www.agrisafe.org/resource/the-agristress-provider-directory-press-release-2025/

Related Stories
Roger McEowen of the Washburn School of Law discusses the lack of legal expertise in rural areas and a new program in Kansas aimed at addressing the issue.
Jake Charleston from Specialty Risk Insurance Agency recapped an Oklahoma auctioneer contest and recent industry events, showing how stakeholder feedback helps insurers gauge market conditions and risk management needs.
Kaleigh Backstrom says her early involvement in 4-H helped set her on that path and sparked her interest in veterinary medicine.
A new partnership with the Montana Beef Council is bringing protein-packed refuel stations to high school sports tournaments across the state.
Rising corn and soybean prices may lower expected payments for producers
David Fisher with the American Lamb Board joined us to discuss a new sustainability program designed to boost producer profitability while supporting stewardship practices.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Chris Weaver, a sixth generation farmer in Finksburg, Maryland, talks about his successful relationship with his partners on the Golden Harvest Agronomy Team for his soybean and corn operation.
For many in the ag community, these food safety tips might be common knowledge. However, taking the extra precaution is worth avoiding a ‘spoiled’ summertime outing!
According to surveys by the University of Georgia in 2015, feral hogs caused approximately $100 million in agricultural damage just in that state. They continue to be a costly problem for rural communities across the state, reports Damon Jones of Georgia Farm Monitor.
Chaley Harney, Executive Director of the Montana Beef Council, and Jonna Jones, Director of Marketing for Wentana, LLC, say it’s a great time for both cattle producers and beef consumers to celebrate one of America’s favorite proteins.